How much do I really know about my cycle? The question that sparked two women to create an app for tracking hormonal health

How much does a woman really know about her hormonal cycle? This question often echoed for Lucia and Philippa as they delved into the complexities of the female cycle. Unfortunately, it is often perceived merely as a monthly inconvenience rather than an essential indicator of health. Public communication about it—whether with healthcare providers, family, or friends—lacks depth, leading to significant gaps in knowledge.

Women’s health is often seen through a male-centered lens, diminishing the unique needs of half the population. Medical studies are predominantly conducted on male subjects, with results presented as universally applicable. This reality not only misrepresents women’s health needs but also contributes to significant delays in diagnoses. Everyday items, such as seat belts, are primarily tested on male bodies, resulting in increased risks for women in accidents.

These frustrating realizations underscored the importance of understanding one’s own body as a means of achieving self-determination and equality. After giving birth to two children, Lucia was shocked and ashamed to discover how little she understood about her hormonal cycle. Similarly, Philippa began her exploration when she struggled to tolerate hormonal contraception and sought alternatives. The deeper they delved into their research, the clearer it became: knowledge of the female cycle is an undermined superpower that can lead to better health outcomes and personal empowerment.

In 2021, they founded HERMONE, a Berlin-based femtech start-up, and after raising €1M in pre-seed funding, launched their cycle-tracking app in 2023. The app is designed to improve access to information for individuals with female hormonal cycles, enabling them to live more self-determined lives. It provides users with detailed insights into their cycles, including physical and emotional symptoms. Each symptom is viewed holistically, helping users identify patterns and make informed health decisions.

HERMONE also fosters a community that contributes to the Female Body Literacy movement. By anonymously sharing data for research, users collectively work toward changing societal perceptions and increasing awareness and health literacy of women’s health issues. The app emphasizes that the female cycle encompasses much more than menstruation and ovulation; it involves intricate hormonal changes that affect various aspects of life.

Key features of the app include:
- Personalized Tracking: Log symptoms, moods, and other data to spot cycle patterns.
- Educational Resources: Access information on hormonal phases, symptoms, and management.
- Community Support: Share experiences and insights with others.
-Research Participation: Contribute anonymized data to advance health research.

Adapted from:
https://femtechinsider.com/hermone-launch-investment/

For more information:
https://hermone.health